DOTHAN, Ala. – On Thursday morning, caregivers and their loved ones gathered at Dothan Nurseries for SARCOA’s latest Memory Café—a warm, welcoming event designed for those navigating memory loss. From 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., participants enjoyed a peaceful garden setting, engaging activities, and a shared lunch, all tailored to create meaningful moments without overwhelming anyone.
These gatherings, hosted by the Southern Alabama Regional Council on Aging (SARCOA), are part of an ongoing effort to support caregivers and individuals with dementia in the Wiregrass area. By choosing serene outdoor venues like horse farms and botanical gardens, SARCOA offers a refreshing change of scenery and a chance to connect with others in similar situations.
One caregiver shared how much these outings have meant to her and her aunt:
“Having these outings at the horse farm and here today at the gardens have just been so refreshing. She loves to be outside. She’s very social, and so the fact that they have them at the perfect time, 10:30 in the morning with lunch, it’s just the perfect setting for something meaningful, not too long, and fulfilling. So it’s been a joy.”
SARCOA’s Memory Cafés are free to attend and open to anyone affected by memory loss. They provide a safe, relaxed environment where caregivers and their loved ones can enjoy each other’s company, find support, and build community.
To learn more about SARCOA’s programs and services, visit their website at sarcoa.org.
